Definition of flattery
flatteries
1a : the act or practice of flattering She uses the art of flattery to her advantage.b (1) : something that flatters A compliment is flattery … — Harry Shaw (2) : insincere or excessive praise He tried to win his teacher's favor with flattery.
2 obsolete : a pleasing self-deception
Explore Merriam-Webster
Examples of flattery in a Sentence
He tried to win his teacher's favor with flattery.
a talk show host who is known for charming her guests with disingenuous flattery
Recent Examples of flattery from the Web
-
In Washington, Trump has alternated between bellicosity and flattery in his public statements about North Korea, but his administration is still working to solidify a policy to handle its nuclear ambitions.
-
Trump has alternated between bellicosity and flattery in his public statements about North Korea, but his administration is still working to solidify a policy on handling the North's nuclear ambitions.
-
President Donald Trump has alternated between bellicosity and flattery in his public statements about North Korea, but his administration is still working to solidify a policy to handle its nuclear ambitions.
-
President Trump has alternated in his public statements between bellicosity and flattery.
-
U.S. President Donald Trump has alternated in his public statements between bellicosity and flattery.
-
In both countries, where the hosts showered Trump with flattery and warmth, Trump played the role of gracious guest.
-
Please To the true believer, spoilers are the sincerest form of flattery.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'flattery'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of flattery
see 1flatter
FLATTERY Defined for English Language Learners
flattery
playDefinition of flattery for English Language Learners
-
: praise that is not sincere
FLATTERY Defined for Kids
flattery
playDefinition of flattery for Students
flatteries
: praise that is not deserved or meant
Learn More about flattery
-
See words that rhyme with flattery Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for flattery Spanish Central: Translation of flattery Nglish: Translation of flattery for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of flattery for Arabic speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up flattery? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!